Maricopa County Declares October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month

Maricopa County Recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month

In a solemn acknowledgment of the tragic loss of 71 Arizonans to domestic violence in 2025, Maricopa County has declared October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month. The county aims to honor the victims and support survivors in their ongoing battles against abuse.

Chair Kate Brophy McGee of District 3 emphasized the importance of community awareness, stating that “October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Let’s all do our part to raise awareness in our communities so survivors can find the support they need.” She highlighted that domestic violence can affect individuals regardless of their background or financial status, advocating for empowerment through storytelling.

Vice Chair Debbie Lesko from District 4 shared her personal journey from a domestic violence survivor to a Congressional representative, urging those affected by abuse to hold onto hope. “To all those struggling with abuse, please remember that there is hope and your dreams are still within reach,” she said.

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Supervisor Steve Gallardo of District 5 emphasized the need for collective action against domestic violence. “Even one incident of domestic violence is one too many,” he stated, advocating for community education and resource provision to survivors.

Understanding the Impact of Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue, often manifesting as physical, emotional, or financial abuse. Here are some critical statistics:

• Nearly half of women and transgender individuals, and a quarter of men, will experience intimate partner violence in their lifetime, according to the National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey.
• ACESDV’s helplines received 1,655 communications from January to June 2026.
• In 2025, 71 Arizonans were victims of domestic violence-related homicides, with 70% of these occurring in Maricopa County.

Supervisor Thomas Galvin of District 2 reminded the public that each statistic represents a deeply affected life, urging the community to support those seeking to escape abuse. Supervisor Mark Stewart of District 1 reaffirmed Maricopa County’s commitment to aiding survivors, stating, “Survivors, you are not alone.”

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

Everyone deserves 
healthy relationships.

Find resources for domestic violence and get help at ACESDV.org 

County Initiatives to Combat Domestic Violence

Throughout October, Maricopa County will engage in various activities to raise awareness:

• Color the County – The County Administration Building will be illuminated in purple.
• Wear Purple Day – Residents are encouraged to wear purple on October 15 to show support.
• Durango Campus Coffee & Donuts – Supervisor Gallardo will offer resources alongside refreshments on October 20.
• Unity Luncheon – A gathering on October 22 will feature survivor stories and insights from community organizations.